Orencia (Abatacept)

OverviewOrencia is a prescription medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat active psoriatic arthritis in adults. Orencia may be referred to by its drug name, Abatacept.

Orencia is an immunomodulator, or in other words, a drug that modulates the immune system. It is also considered a biologic. It is a fusion protein created by genetic engineering. Orencia is believed to work by modifying the immune system. Specifically, Orencia binds to antigen presenting cells (APCs) and prevents them from signaling T cells to attack the connective tissues.

How do I take it?Orencia is administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week or intravenous infusion once every four weeks.... read more

Orencia is available as single-use, prefilled syringe or autoinjector for subcutaneous injection.

Side effectsThe FDA-approved label for Orencia lists common side effects including headache, nausea, and cold or flu symptoms.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Orencia can include hypersensitivity reactions and increased risk for infections, including severe infections.

For answers to frequently asked questions about exposure to Orencia during pregnancy and breastfeeding, visit the experts at MothertoBaby.org.

Welcome back!

MyPsoriasisTeam is the social network for those living with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Get the emotional support you need from others like you, and gain practical advice and insights on managing treatment or therapies for psoriasis. MyPsoriasisTeam is the only social network where you can truly connect, make real friendships, and share daily ups and downs in a judgement-free place.

MyPsoriasisTeam is not a medical referral site and does not recommend or endorse any particular Provider or medical treatment.
No information on MyPsoriasisTeam should be construed as medical and/or health advice.